Even with a family history of cancer, 80-year-old Barb Espinda was still caught off guard when she received her breast cancer diagnosis last fall. Fortunately, the Greensburg resident had two advantages in her favor. Not only did she find her cancer early, but she had Margaret Mary’s cancer team on her side.

“It’s a little startling to hear you have cancer, but I was grateful to know I could receive treatment close to home,” said Barb. “From the reception staff to the doctors, everyone was wonderful. They were courteous and talked in terms that were easy to understand.”

After having surgery to remove the cancerous lump, Barb was scheduled for 22 radiation treatments at Margaret Mary’s Cancer Center to target any cancer cells left behind. At MMH, our state-of-the-art technology is designed to deliver a precise radiation dose to targeted areas while delivering the lowest dose possible to surrounding healthy tissue.

“I had a calendar at home where I marked each day off,” said Barb. “Even though I was glad when my treatments were over, the staff made sure I was comfortable at each visit. Everyone was friendly and encouraging. They treated me like family.”

Now that summer is in full swing, Barb is cancer free and thrilled her energy has returned in time to get outdoors and enjoy her favorite activities.

“When I was diagnosed with cancer, my only option was to fight,” said Barb. “I’m grateful to be back to mowing, shopping and playing cards. With two sons and several grandchildren, I also have a lot of family gatherings in store.”